The Updike's

Even though I was in California on April Fool's day . . . I was not about to let it go.  My cute mom helped me execute my joke to the kiddos while I was gone.   The day before I left, I covered brussel sprouts with white chocolate and sprinkles. My mom went a step above and put these "cake pop" like treats into a professional dessert box.   She waited until after school to give the kids the treats.  They all ate them together and they all gagged and spit the brussel sprout out quickly.  She captured some fabulous videos.  Ha!  The tradition lives on . . . !

California here we come!  Garrett's work has a work retreat every other year and this year it was in Palm Springs.  It is always hard to leave kids and responsibilities, but it was such a lovely and much needed get away.  I am so thankful for my mom for taking time out of her schedule to stay with the kiddos.   We stayed at La Quinta Resort and Club.  It was beautiful!  Beautiful little villas, 41 pools, spa, tennis and pickleball courts. We were able to sign up for a couple of activities during our 4 day stay.  I had some personal time at the pool, hiking, a massage, and a pickle ball class.  We had very nice dinners and ended the week with a night of comedy with Ryan Hamilton.   Beautiful views It was such a fun time to be with Garrett for a little get away at a beautiful place.  

Lily had so much fun spending a Saturday at a theater camp.  They were put into groups and had to come up with a 10 minute play.  The parents and families were all invited to watch them later that evening.   She was happy that her friend Henry was in her group. "Turtle the Trickster "was the short play that they had to put together. She was a monkey . . .  And a Hunter  Once again - she truly shines on stage.  We just love watching her!

 

After a month or sharing sickness . . . we were finally healthy enough to make a visit to our newest member of our family: Baby Calum.   We were all smitten and had to beg each other for a turn to hold him.  So sweet! Crew's face is my favorite!  He didn't quite know what to do when Calum started crying.  

The cute little leprechaun came again for St. Patrick's day.  Chocolate gold coins and green socks. Happy Happy Birthday to this wonderful 11 year-old!  Boston just wanted Jazz hats for his birthday.  We ordered them with him online and he received them a little bit before his birthday. And new shoes. Pop Tarts for his requested birthday Boston was super excited to decorate his own cake.  He tried to spell "Bucs" on the cake for his beloved Buccaneers. 5 Guys was the place Boston requested for his Birthday Dinner.  So happy that Grandpa and Grandma Crossley and Austin and Sarah came also. We sure love you, Boston Boy!!